Why Liverpool's Potential Premier League title victory means more than just lifting a trophy

Liverpool have always fondly remembered their years under the guidance of Bill Shankly and Bob Paisley, for not only bringing them success but also providing them with an identity and soul.

Now they are about to praise someone new. Brendan Rodgers is on the verge of becoming the first manager to bring the Premier League title to Anfield. This is a feat not even achieved by the likes of club legend "king" Kenny Dalglish, current England manager Roy Hodgson or Champions League winner Rafa Benitez.

Rodgers has reignited Liverpool this season, some may even say he has given them an entirely new soul. The return of the red nets has been greatly welcomed by supporters as well as the faith given to youth academy players such as Jon Flanagan and Raheem Sterling. He has also introduced a new playing system much like the one he admired from Barcelona and implemented at Swansea.

He has managed to make Anfield a fortress, especially against the top teams. A 5-1 demolishing against Arsenal, a 1-0 victory over bitter rivals Manchester United and a dramatic 3-2 win over fellow title chasers Manchester City. A victory in their next fixture, a home tie against Chelsea, will seal that ever elusive league title.

Now, many may make the point that Liverpool have not had to content with the plight of European fixtures. While that point is a valid one, it takes nothing away from what Liverpool have achieved domestically this season, and not just results wise.

A rejuvenated Luis Suarez has evolved from a diving, biting and flat out embarrassment to a world class striker that football looks at in awe. His devastating partnership with England forward Daniel Sturridge has left defences quaking in their boots. Sturridge has also been given a stable ground in which to grow after failed attempts to secure a place in Chelsea's side including multiple loans.

None will be more hungry or deserving, however, than captain Steven Gerrard. The man who revived Liverpool to victory in perhaps the best comeback in Champions League history. A player who clawed back the Reds FA Cup final in 2006 to eventually lift the famous old trophy. In a time when loyalty is almost non existent in football, Gerrard has stuck by his side through thick and thin wearing the captains armband with pride and dignity whilst doing the same for his country, with unfortunately for him, almost identically rewards.

Gerrard also shares twenty five years of pain with Liverpool supporters in the Hillsborough disaster. It would go some way to easing that feeling with a long awaiting league title.

It will also taste much sweeter winning it from the hands of neighbours Manchester United. The retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson and subsequent hiring of former Everton manager David Moyes has seen the Red Devils plummet to a low they have never seen before. No silverware, no title challenge and the possibility of not even making the Europa League next season has left United fans scowling toward the Kop. Getting one over their most bitter rivals will be the cherry on top of the cake.

The question is, if Liverpool do clinch silverware this season, can they sustain that success or will they just be a one season wonder?